The Florida Department of Education has announced that Shelly Teel, a third-grade teacher at Westside Elementary School in Columbia County, is one of the five finalists for the 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year. The announcement came as part of a selection process involving 76 district teachers of the year, with the winner to be revealed in July.
“Shelly Teel is an exemplary educator, and I am pleased to recognize her as a 2026 Teacher of the Year finalist,” stated Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. He added that she exemplifies qualities that bring out the best in students.
Columbia County School Superintendent Keith Couey praised Mrs. Teel’s ability to make learning enjoyable and engaging, describing her as an exceptional educator whose dedication and passion distinguish her.
Teel holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education from St. Leo University and certifications in English for Speakers of Other Languages. She is reading endorsed and provides after-school tutoring. Since 2013, she has been rated highly effective and is active as a Life Group Leader at her church.
The finalists were selected from nearly 175,000 public school teachers across Florida. A committee representing various stakeholders reviewed each district application based on teaching ability, communication skills, professional learning contributions, and community service involvement. The winner will serve for one year as the Christa McAuliffe Ambassador for Education.
The Florida Teacher of the Year program operates in partnership with sponsors such as Florida Prepaid College Savings Plan; Florida State University Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health and Human Sciences; Helios Education Foundation; Sunshine Health; The Florida Lottery; Florida Power & Light Company; HCA Healthcare; Herff Jones; Publix Super Markets Charities; PNC Bank; and JM Family Enterprises.
For more details about the program, interested parties can visit Florida Teachers Lead.
